Bodybuilding

How to Build Strong Hamstring Muscle?

Published

12 years ago

October 31, 2012

F Kyle

There are many articles dedicated to how to build thigh muscle. But you will not find so much information about the training of back thigh muscles in particular, or also called hamstrings muscle. This region is often deprived of load, consequently, under-developed.

If you have a clear less developed back of the thigh, than you have to devote a separate workout to this region and train only it in that day. This will serve as a guarantee that you have worked with a maximum concentration, without thinking about another type of exercise that you have to do and save power by performing them.

Have to be said that thigh muscle is composed of two categories of muscles: the hamstring group and the quadriceps group. The hamstring group is the back of the thigh while the quadriceps group refers to muscles of the front of the thigh.

So, further, in this article, we will talk about a set of exercises that proved to be very effective in building back of the thigh muscle.

First in this list is leg curls in the simulator.

leg curls

This exercise is very effective in the initial stages of training for production of nerve-muscle connections since it involves the hamstrings to work. At a more advanced stage can be used in the power mode, for example, after a warm-up is performed by the formula of five sets per 6 up to 8 reps.

You have to know that performing less than six repetitions of this exercise is impractical, since the load on the hamstrings and passing next to them the blood vessels may be excessive. It can be used too at the stage of high training in pre-competitive, performing a high number of repetitions up to 20.

Leg curls are used also to correct the shape of the back of the thigh. If you use an advanced trainer with variable angle of the starting position, then to focus on the lower part of the back of thigh you have to use down position of the lever adapter.

The average position of the adapter-lever take off the load from the bottom of the hamstrings and focuses on the work of the middle part of the flexors. The highest position of the adapter-lever accentuates the burden on top of the flexor muscles, where the gluteus maximus fit with the top of the hamstring.

When using a simulator with a constant starting angle accentuate movement in a particular phase of the amplitude. For example, to remove the load from the bottom of the flexors, do not lower to the end adapter-lever. If you need to shift the focus to the top of the flexor muscles, then work only in the upper two-thirds of the amplitude, avoiding even a small separation of the pelvis from the bench simulator.

Must Read: 9 Squats Variations For Bigger Muscles

Bending One Leg in The Simulator:

Bending One Leg in The Simulator

From a biomechanical point of view, this exercise is absolutely identical with two legs bending version. The difference is that when working with one foot, you can much more closely focus on the hamstrings and, consequently, a fuller examination of it.

Scissor Squats:

Scissor Squats

When performing this exercise the athlete take a long counter, where the shin of standing in the front leg is inclined to back at the 70- 80 degrees. Back foot stop is on the toe, the heel is raised and is not lowered until you need to change feet or you have done the exercise.

The main difficulty in mastering this technique of exercise is to perform squats straight up and down, without the slightest movement back and forth while holding the body straight up and down deep enough.

Even with strict adherence to this technique the first two or three weeks, you will have to work actively hip extensor hind leg. At the initial stage of mastering this technique often occurs an effect of driving around of the legs. We must avoid excessive force on the toe of the front leg, usually occurs when the body is tilted forward.

Keep your body straight, hold strictly vertical direction when performing squats. Such kind of exercise can be perceived as somewhat squat down and back. The width of the foot at the front is about 30-40 cm, legs do not stand in line.

This kind of exercise is advisable to perform no more than 10-12 reps. The difficulty of mastering this technique of execution is compensated by the efficiency of this exercise for the development of the middle and upper parts of the hamstring.

Must Read: Goblet Squats For Increasing Lower Body Flexibility And Strength

Scissors Squats to Smith Simulator:

Bending One Leg in The Simulator

According to biomechanics, this exercise is very similar to conventional scissors squats. The main difference is that clear t direction selected by Smith simulator, allow you do not struggle with keeping balance, and focus entirely on exploring muscle groups.

Dead Thrust or Deadlift Exercises:

Dead Thrust or Deadlift Exercises

It is the most effective exercise for the back of the thighs, in any case, it has the highest power ratings. In this exercise uses large enough working weight, for example, 140, 170 pounds or more. The main condition for the proper technique is straight, somewhat arched forward and back and straight, maximum rectified knee joints of legs.

During exercise is important to avoid bending at the lumbar back, there should be only one axis of rotation by lowering and raising the projectile - the hip joint. Lowering the body appropriate to carry only up to a horizontal position, not below. In general, the amplitude of the motion must be the same as what you allow your flexibility.

Must Read: How to Find the Best Deadlift Grip For You?

This means that you have to lean forward and down with the rod in your hands so low (but not below the horizontal position of the body), how do you do it, keeping an upright position back and legs. A sign of proper execution of the exercise would be the feel of tension load on the back of the thighs.

From the average level of training during the development of exercise and increasing operating weights is advisable to bend your knees when performing deadlifts. This technique removed unnecessary burden to the hamstrings.

This happens although some athletes are working with two hundred pounds or more on completely straight legs. Deadlifts include in work the bottom of the hamstring, so very tall athletes should pay attention to the degree of bending your knees - excessive bending, which undercharges lower head hamstring may increase taper hip from the side view. In any case, bending the knees should be small, the knee should be moved forward by 5-8 cm.

The greatest impact of the deadlifts has an on middle and upper part of the hamstring, in fact, its basic, the most massive land. Unfortunately, improper technique can significantly reduce the impact of any, even the most effective exercises.

For example, in case of deadlifts correct technique assumes the maximum switching back of the thighs at the lowest possible involvement of the extensor muscles of the back and pelvis, such as the large buttock.
This is achieved in such a style technique, in which the body is accompanied by a lowering of the maximum retraction of the pelvis back.

You have to slowly lower the body naturally leaving the legs and pelvis back and it is important that during this movement back legs and pelvis were in amplitude such that they must be forced to maintain a balance - and no more.

As soon as you go back further than it should be, much of the burden will fall on the lower back and pelvic muscles. When lifting up the body let your hips remain in the rear position as long as possible in terms of disequilibrium.

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It will be wrong when come back to vertical position to fully straighten the body, or that is a common mistake to reject body back even further vertical. Such a movement is more specific for powerlifters, to show the judges that the weight is recorded to the deadlift.

Hamstrings work in all cases when it changed the angle between the femur (thigh) and the body, that is, in all forms and types of sit-ups in a wide stance, tilt, hyperextension and presses down with a broad statement of the feet. Thus, in case of all these exercises, the muscles or the back of the thigh work very actively, or, at least, receive substantial indirect burden.

As you see there is the very effective exercise that can help you to build strong back thigh muscle. All you have to do is to perform them in the proper way. As you know a successful training hardly depends on the correct technique of execution of the exercise. Moreover, reserving a once a week or two weeks training for building hamstrings muscle would be a very efficient method to get this muscle growth.

So, do not believe those who said that these this group of muscle cannot be built the way you want it. You can do it, just put into practice above exercises and be persistent. Nothing gets easy, and if it is then there are big chances that you will lose the same speed you get it! Building a nice lean body is a long way and you have to be ready for this!

Read More: Injecting Stem Cells For Muscle Growth

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F Kyle

The "GYMRAT" of this blog, Pro-blogger and Fitness Instructor since 2008

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

1 month ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

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Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

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Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

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Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.

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Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

7 months ago

September 5, 2024

Zizou

Natural bodybuilding competitions are designed to promote and celebrate athletes who build their physiques without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. These events emphasize fair play, health, and the natural development of muscle mass and definition.

The second edition of natural bodybuilding competitions has gained momentum globally, particularly focusing on drug-free athletes. These competitions are hosted by various organizations like the INBA/PNBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association) and OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders).

In 2024, several notable events have been planned, including the INBA Natural Universe and INBA World Cup, both of which emphasize natural bodybuilding through rigorous drug testing policies. These events aim to showcase competitors who adhere to strict drug-free protocols, and winners often earn pro cards allowing them to compete in higher-level professional competitions.

These competitions focus on categories like men's bodybuilding, classic physique, and women's figure and bikini, among others. Athletes undergo polygraph and urine tests to ensure compliance with natural bodybuilding standards. The winners often receive medals, trophies, or pro status

Drug Testing

Participants undergo rigorous drug testing to ensure they are not using banned substances. This can include urine tests, polygraph tests, and other methods to maintain the integrity of the competition.

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Judging Criteria

Athletes are judged based on several factors, including:

Muscle Mass: The size and volume of muscles.
Symmetry: The balance and proportion of the physique.
Conditioning: The level of muscle definition and leanness.
Presentation: Posing routines and overall stage presence.

Preparation

Competitors often spend months preparing for these events, focusing on strict diet plans, intense workout regimens, and posing practice. The goal is to achieve peak physical condition on the day of the competition.

Community and Support

Natural bodybuilding competitions foster a sense of community among athletes who share a commitment to health and fitness. Many competitors form lasting friendships and support networks through these events.

Starting training for a natural bodybuilding competition is an exciting journey! Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to compete in a specific category like Men’s Physique or Women’s Figure? Setting clear goals will guide your training and nutrition plans.

2. Create a Training Plan

Focus on a well-rounded training program that includes:

Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are essential for building overall muscle mass.
Isolation Exercises: Target specific muscles to enhance definition and symmetry.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or reps to continuously challenge your muscles.

3. Follow a Structured Diet

Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss:

Caloric Intake: Calculate your daily caloric needs based on your goals (bulking or cutting).
Macronutrients: Balance your intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Aim for high protein to support muscle repair and growth.
Micronutrients: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

4. Incorporate Cardio

Cardio helps with fat loss and improves cardiovascular health. Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions in your routine.

5. Practice Posing

Posing is a critical aspect of bodybuilding competitions. Practice regularly to perfect your form and presentation on stage.

6. Rest and Recovery

Allow your body to recover with adequate sleep and rest days. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder progress.

7. Stay Consistent and Patient

Building a competition-ready physique takes time and dedication. Stay consistent with your training and diet, and be patient with your progress.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Consider working with a coach or trainer who specializes in natural bodybuilding. They can provide personalized advice and help you stay on track.

9. Join a Community

Engage with other natural bodybuilders for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local gyms can be great places to connect.

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Qualifications

The qualifications for natural bodybuilding competitions vary slightly between organizations but generally follow these principles:

Drug-Free Status: Athletes must demonstrate they have been drug-free for a specific period, typically between 5 to 10 years. They are required to pass a drug test, usually through urine samples or polygraph tests, to prove they haven't used banned substances like steroids, hormones, or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Membership Requirements: Competitors often need to be members of the organizing federation. For example, in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), athletes must have a valid WNBF membership to compete.

Amateur and Pro Divisions: Most competitions have both amateur and professional divisions. To qualify for a pro division, an athlete must first win an amateur event or obtain a “pro card” by performing exceptionally in a recognized event.

Age and Gender Categories: Athletes are categorized by age and gender. Categories typically include juniors (under 23), open divisions, masters (over 40), and grandmasters (over 50).

Entry and Registration: Competitors must pay an entry fee and complete registration. For certain competitions, a pre-qualification based on past performance may be required.

Distinction Between Natural and Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

The main differences between natural and steroid-based bodybuilding revolve around the methods used to build muscle and the resulting impacts on the body. Here are some key distinctions:

Natural Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Achieved through consistent weight training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Muscle growth is gradual and sustainable.
Health: Generally safer with fewer side effects. Promotes overall health, including better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, and increased bone density.
Appearance: Natural bodybuilders tend to have a more balanced and proportionate physique. Muscle definition is less extreme compared to steroid users.
Recovery: Recovery times are longer, requiring more rest between intense workouts.
Competitions: Natural bodybuilding competitions often have strict drug-testing policies to ensure participants are not using performance-enhancing drugs.

Related Article: T3 Application in Building Muscle Mass

Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Steroids significantly accelerate muscle growth and strength gains. Results are more dramatic and achieved in a shorter time.
Health Risks: Steroid use can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like mood swings.
Appearance: Steroid users often have a more “enhanced” look with larger muscle mass, visible veins, and extreme muscle definition, even in the off-season.
Recovery: Faster recovery times due to the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids, allowing for more frequent and intense training sessions.
Side Effects: Visible side effects can include acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), and changes in secondary sexual characteristics.

Choosing Between the Two

Natural Bodybuilding: Ideal for those who prioritize long-term health, sustainable muscle growth, and a balanced lifestyle.
Steroid-Based Bodybuilding: Often chosen by those seeking rapid and extreme muscle gains, but it comes with significant health risks and ethical considerations.

Take Away

The main advantage of participating in natural bodybuilding events is the emphasis on health and sustainability. Natural bodybuilding promotes muscle growth through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, leading to gradual and sustainable results. This approach minimizes health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, such as liver damage and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, natural bodybuilding fosters a balanced and proportionate physique, and the strict drug-testing policies in competitions ensure a fair and level playing field for all participants. This focus on overall well-being and ethical competition makes natural bodybuilding a healthier and more sustainable choice.

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